1. Practice regularly. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with playing the recorder and the less likely you will be to cough.
2. Warm up your throat before playing. Drinking warm liquids, such as tea or hot chocolate, can help to relax the throat and reduce coughing. You can also try doing vocal exercises, such as humming or singing.
3. Avoid eating or drinking dairy products before playing. Dairy products can cause mucus to build up in the throat, leading to more frequent coughing, so it’s best to avoid eating and drinking them before performing.
4. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your throat lubricated. However, avoid drinking cold water, as it can irritate the throat.
5. Take a deep breath before playing. Taking a deep breath can help to relax your throat and lungs and make you less likely to cough.
6. Don't force yourself to play beyond your abilities. If you feel yourself getting tired, take a break. You'll be more likely to play well and avoid coughing if you're not pushing yourself too hard.
7. Use a humidifier. If your throat is dry or irritated, using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and reduce coughing.
8. Get plenty of rest. Getting enough sleep will help to boost your immune system and make you less likely to get sick.
9. See a doctor if you have a chronic cough. If you have a chronic cough that doesn't go away with home treatment, see a doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the cough.